Profile

Talented defender Stephen Wright worked his way through the ranks at Anfield and finally made his Liverpool debut in the 8-0 Worthington Cup record victory against Stoke City in November 2000. Wright came on as a half-time replacement for Markus Babbel at right back and played his part in the Reds record away victory.

His desire to break into the Reds first team was whetted following a successful spell on loan to Division One side Crewe Alexandra during the 1999-2000 season. Although sidelined early on with damaged ankle ligaments, Wright returned to the Gresty Road outfit following a rehabilitation programme back at Liverpool's Melwood training complex, and went on to gain a valuable taste of first team experience.

Wright made his Premier League debut as a substitute for the injured Markus Babbel in the 3-0 win over West Ham United at Anfield in February 2001. He made a good impression too, helping set up the second goal for Robbie Fowler, and he is fast establishing himself as a regular member of the current first team squad.

He made his first start in the Premiership for Liverpool at Filbert Street in the 4-1 win at Leicester on October 20, 2001. His first goal arrived for the Reds at Anfield in front of the Kop in the 2-0 Champions League win over Borussia Dortmund.

A bright future at Anfield seemingly beckoned for Wright but with no guarantee of first team football Gerard Houllier accepted a bid from Sunderland for him in August 2002.

Other Clubs

Sunderland, Stoke City (loan), Coventry City